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Top Five Dog-Friendly National Parks

By , About.com Guide

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga National Park, Ohio

Enjoying the view at Cuyahoga National Park, Ohio

© abardwell via Flickr

With the sun shining, rivers flowing, and trails open for dogs, it’s hard not to have a fun and relaxing trip at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. And the key here is relaxing. This national park doesn’t have the grandiose feeling as some of its companions. In fact, many trails are tucked in between farmlands, neighborhoods, and even highways.

The main trail through the park is comprised of about 20 miles of the Towpath Trail. With a mix of meadows and forest, you and your dog can enjoy an afternoon sniffing flowers, listening to the chirping of birds, and napping in the shade.

Be sure to check out the north end of Cuyahoga Valley, the Bradford Reservation, for some of the best times with your dog. A five-mile trail crosses the Tinkers Creek Gorge area, exploring Ohio's most magnificent canyon. The gorge is a National Natural Landmark and is well-known for its hemlock forests. You can also check out short detours off the main trail for an easy hike to Bridal Veil Falls and the Hemlock Creek Loop Trail.

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